Spotlight Studio

Alliance Theatre Anywhere
Streaming

SPOTLIGHT STUDIO

6 Artist Curated Shows available to stream now.

The Spotlight Studio is dedicated to spotlighting local Atlanta artists. Whatever their story, whatever their vibe. The Spotlight Studio is a platform for innovative creation. 

In addition to the live productions of the 2020/21 season, the Alliance launched a new streaming platform – Alliance Theatre Anywhere – to bring the best of the Alliance’s stages to the digital world. Streaming shows and exclusive content will be available on demand.

All Atlanta area artists were invited to submit a proposal to produce for Spotlight Studio, an extension of the Alliance Theatre’s inaugural digital season. Spotlight Studio seeks to provide space for generative artists of all varieties to explore the use of digital platforms in creating new and exciting theatrical works. The Spotlight Studio application is available for artists of all disciplines and styles  – actor, director, designer, writer, composer, choreographer, or musician (as examples) – to develop digital work. 

Six Artists were granted $5,000 to develop and produce a thirty-minute digital work within a 60 day period. After the 60 day period, the finished work lives on the Alliance Theatre Anywhere streaming platform.

Price: Donation Only (or included with Annual Membership)

Stream Now

Screenshot

Screenshot is a digital play about two fifteen year old girls navigating their personal worlds through the lens of social media. It's a hybrid of theatre and film, both and yet not completely either one. It's written as a play that takes place almost completely over social media. The story is about two girls, best friends in middle school, who go to two separate high schools and begin to have different experiences, exacerbated by social media. One, a talented dancer, gains a large following. The other struggles to finally be noticed. Soon they're at odds with each other as they try to navigate their own understandings of themselves and their roles in the world, coming of age in the age of social media.

Screenshot is a digital play about two fifteen year old girls navigating their personal worlds through the lens of social media. It's a hybrid of theatre and film, both and yet not completely either one. It's written as a play that takes place almost completely over social media. The story is about two girls, best friends in middle school, who go to two separate high schools and begin to have different experiences, exacerbated by social media. One, a talented dancer, gains a large following. The other struggles to finally be noticed. Soon they're at odds with each other as they try to navigate their own understandings of themselves and their roles in the world, coming of age in the age of social media.

Cracking Zeus

"Cracking Zeus" is a present-day myth about religion, dependency, and redemption. Drug addiction is a scourge that affects nearly the entire world, but has dramatically impacted minority communities in urban areas. This tragicomedy draws a parallel between the rigid structure of the Grecian pantheon and modern views on social hierarchies that valorize power and demonize addiction.

"Cracking Zeus" is a present-day myth about religion, dependency, and redemption. Drug addiction is a scourge that affects nearly the entire world, but has dramatically impacted minority communities in urban areas. This tragicomedy draws a parallel between the rigid structure of the Grecian pantheon and modern views on social hierarchies that valorize power and demonize addiction.

  • Ain't Leavin'

    Why do we resist change? Why won’t we take action? Why must you be wrong for me to be right? “Ain’t Leavin” is a poetic, and somewhat haunting, short film which explores these very questions. From the perspective of a folksy orator, played by local artist Kyle “BlackCatTips” Brooks, the viewer is asked to examine the fear and the ignorance that often keep us stagnant; or more often, make us dangerous to ourselves and others.

  • Ain't Leavin'

    Why do we resist change? Why won’t we take action? Why must you be wrong for me to be right? “Ain’t Leavin” is a poetic, and somewhat haunting, short film which explores these very questions. From the perspective of a folksy orator, played by local artist Kyle “BlackCatTips” Brooks, the viewer is asked to examine the fear and the ignorance that often keep us stagnant; or more often, make us dangerous to ourselves and others.

  • Ain't Leavin'

    Why do we resist change? Why won’t we take action? Why must you be wrong for me to be right? “Ain’t Leavin” is a poetic, and somewhat haunting, short film which explores these very questions. From the perspective of a folksy orator, played by local artist Kyle “BlackCatTips” Brooks, the viewer is asked to examine the fear and the ignorance that often keep us stagnant; or more often, make us dangerous to ourselves and others.

Why do we resist change? Why won’t we take action? Why must you be wrong for me to be right? “Ain’t Leavin” is a poetic, and somewhat haunting, short film which explores these very questions. From the perspective of a folksy orator, played by local artist Kyle “BlackCatTips” Brooks, the viewer is asked to examine the fear and the ignorance that often keep us stagnant; or more often, make us dangerous to ourselves and others.

TELL ME

Tell Me is centered around a young black man and his therapist. Originally intending to navigate the pitfalls of his current relationship, he realizes there is more for him to unpack. As the sessions continue, secrets from his past spill over and invade the present, unveiling obstacles that threaten his future.

Tell Me is centered around a young black man and his therapist. Originally intending to navigate the pitfalls of his current relationship, he realizes there is more for him to unpack. As the sessions continue, secrets from his past spill over and invade the present, unveiling obstacles that threaten his future.

(Masc)hood

(Masc)hood is a documentary about masculinity that centers women, trans men, and those identifying as non-binary. When we see (masc)hood represented in the media, it appears one of two ways: an aggressive woman or a trans-man living in stealth. This teaches us to be fearful of masculine presenting women when we encounter them while also telling us that trans men don’t exist or deserve to have their stories told out loud. Those non gender conforming are rarely even mentioned. This documentary gives voice to those whose narratives are often forgotten, as they discuss the “otherness” felt from a very young age and how they grew to find comfort in their masculinity. (Masc)hood features rich perspectives from scholars and therapists to comedians and artists, giving them the platform to share their stories and inspire others.

(Masc)hood is a documentary about masculinity that centers women, trans men, and those identifying as non-binary. When we see (masc)hood represented in the media, it appears one of two ways: an aggressive woman or a trans-man living in stealth. This teaches us to be fearful of masculine presenting women when we encounter them while also telling us that trans men don’t exist or deserve to have their stories told out loud. Those non gender conforming are rarely even mentioned. This documentary gives voice to those whose narratives are often forgotten, as they discuss the “otherness” felt from a very young age and how they grew to find comfort in their masculinity. (Masc)hood features rich perspectives from scholars and therapists to comedians and artists, giving them the platform to share their stories and inspire others.

Pillow Talk

intimacy for your ears. This is an immersive audio experience. Swipe through 5 different dating profiles and listen to an intimate conversation with your date. For the best experience: lay on the right side of your bed. put your headphones in. ​close your eyes.

intimacy for your ears. This is an immersive audio experience. Swipe through 5 different dating profiles and listen to an intimate conversation with your date. For the best experience: lay on the right side of your bed. put your headphones in. ​close your eyes.

Creative

Tatiana Bell is a multi-disciplinary interaction designer and visual artist. She is currently in her nal semester pursuing her BS in Interactive Design with a minor in Technical Communication from Kennesaw State University. Meanwhile, she is interning with the Community Engagement and Arts team at Atlanta Regional Commission, working at the Zuckerman Museum of Art, leading design projects, and pursuing her artistic career. In her visual work, Tatiana’s journey of self-discovery and identity as a mixed-Black Southern Queer is channeled through vibrant colors, geometric forms, and expressive scenes on paper. Through Tatiana’s work—whether in physical spaces, on screens, or on paper—her intention is to create meaningful and exciting experiences that explore the possibilities of design and amplify marginalized voices to the greatest extent.

Tatiana Bell
Tatiana Bell
Creator, "Pillow Talk"

Tatiana Bell is a multi-disciplinary interaction designer and visual artist. She is currently in her nal semester pursuing her BS in Interactive Design with a minor in Technical Communication from Kennesaw State University. Meanwhile, she is interning with the Community Engagement and Arts team at Atlanta Regional Commission, working at the Zuckerman Museum of Art, leading design projects, and pursuing her artistic career. In her visual work, Tatiana’s journey of self-discovery and identity as a mixed-Black Southern Queer is channeled through vibrant colors, geometric forms, and expressive scenes on paper. Through Tatiana’s work—whether in physical spaces, on screens, or on paper—her intention is to create meaningful and exciting experiences that explore the possibilities of design and amplify marginalized voices to the greatest extent.

Christopher Hampton is a multi-hyphenate artist who has developed and performed in work all over the country. Locally raised and a graduate of Tri-Cities High School, he then received a B.F.A. from the California Institute of the Arts where he was personally instructed by Nataki Garret and Ron Cephas Jones. He has worked as an actor in regional theaters around the country including The Mixed Blood Theatre, The Boston Court, and the Denver Center Theatre Company. Locally, he has performed on many stages including The Alliance Theatre, 7 Stages, Theatre Emory, Horizon, and Aurora. He is a mainstage company member and instructor at Whole World Improv Theatre. Christopher has also collaborated on and developed a number of short lms for online viewing, and developed and performed the feature lm OMG We’re in a Horror Movie available on Apple T.V.

Christopher Hampton
Christopher Hampton
Creator, "Cracking Zeus"

Christopher Hampton is a multi-hyphenate artist who has developed and performed in work all over the country. Locally raised and a graduate of Tri-Cities High School, he then received a B.F.A. from the California Institute of the Arts where he was personally instructed by Nataki Garret and Ron Cephas Jones. He has worked as an actor in regional theaters around the country including The Mixed Blood Theatre, The Boston Court, and the Denver Center Theatre Company. Locally, he has performed on many stages including The Alliance Theatre, 7 Stages, Theatre Emory, Horizon, and Aurora. He is a mainstage company member and instructor at Whole World Improv Theatre. Christopher has also collaborated on and developed a number of short lms for online viewing, and developed and performed the feature lm OMG We’re in a Horror Movie available on Apple T.V.

Elizabeth Jarrett is a multi-disciplinary spatial and experience designer specializing in immersive and interactive media. She holds a BA in Theatre and Performance Studies from Kennesaw State University. Over the past decade, she has produced and curated visual and performance art, music, and community events in Atlanta through retired arts organization Deer Bear Wolf and recently founded Strange Shapes, a creative studio for imaginative storytelling (2020 SPARK grant award winner). Her professional work also includes scenic design for classical and immersive performance, recently winning a Themed Entertainment Award for her work in Los Angeles. Elizabeth has been an artist in residence with the Goat Farm Arts Center, the Millennial Trains Project, Hambidge Center for Arts and Sciences, the Ionian Institute of Art and Culture in Kefelonia, Greece, and will present work at BarnArts in Maine this summer. 

Elizabeth Jarrett
Elizabeth Jarrett
Creator, "Pillow Talk"

Elizabeth Jarrett is a multi-disciplinary spatial and experience designer specializing in immersive and interactive media. She holds a BA in Theatre and Performance Studies from Kennesaw State University. Over the past decade, she has produced and curated visual and performance art, music, and community events in Atlanta through retired arts organization Deer Bear Wolf and recently founded Strange Shapes, a creative studio for imaginative storytelling (2020 SPARK grant award winner). Her professional work also includes scenic design for classical and immersive performance, recently winning a Themed Entertainment Award for her work in Los Angeles. Elizabeth has been an artist in residence with the Goat Farm Arts Center, the Millennial Trains Project, Hambidge Center for Arts and Sciences, the Ionian Institute of Art and Culture in Kefelonia, Greece, and will present work at BarnArts in Maine this summer. 

Chloe Kay is a singer-songwriter, writer, actor, and performer in Atlanta. She holds a BFA from Savannah College of Art and Design. Chloe has performed with the Alliance, Aurora, Shakespeare Tavern, and Theatre du Reve. She released her debut album in 2018 with the Bahamian record label, Watersedge Records, and is currently working on her second. She believes fervently in healing through creative expression, and intends to continue to create in any facet she's called to in pursuit of that contribution.

Chloe Kay
Chloe Kay
Creator, "Screenshot"

Chloe Kay is a singer-songwriter, writer, actor, and performer in Atlanta. She holds a BFA from Savannah College of Art and Design. Chloe has performed with the Alliance, Aurora, Shakespeare Tavern, and Theatre du Reve. She released her debut album in 2018 with the Bahamian record label, Watersedge Records, and is currently working on her second. She believes fervently in healing through creative expression, and intends to continue to create in any facet she's called to in pursuit of that contribution.

I moved to Atlanta in 2009 to study theatre. I knew Atlanta’s was a penetrable market, and I could grow as an artist without getting lost in the shuffle like I may have in a larger city. Over the past 11 years, I have added writer, director, editor, cinematographer, and educator to my resume. I have found a love for film and video production that Atlanta has made possible for me and am now firmly invested in this city and the multitude of opportunities it offers. This is a city where you are guaranteed to run into someone you know at every play, every screening, and every concert. Atlanta has the charm and accessibility of a small town, and its artists are strong and determined. I would not be the filmmaker I am today without the collaboration afforded me by the Atlanta arts community. I am committed to living and working in Atlanta and giving back to the community that built my career. 

I founded Loud South Productions to accomplish three major goals - to tell stories, to make a living, and to help others make a living. My video production jobs have allowed me to collaborate with many talented Atlanta artists and technicians. The corporate gigs allow me to help put money in their pockets and the purely creative projects put joy in our hearts.

Weston Manders
Weston Manders
Creator, "AINT LEAVIN"

I moved to Atlanta in 2009 to study theatre. I knew Atlanta’s was a penetrable market, and I could grow as an artist without getting lost in the shuffle like I may have in a larger city. Over the past 11 years, I have added writer, director, editor, cinematographer, and educator to my resume. I have found a love for film and video production that Atlanta has made possible for me and am now firmly invested in this city and the multitude of opportunities it offers. This is a city where you are guaranteed to run into someone you know at every play, every screening, and every concert. Atlanta has the charm and accessibility of a small town, and its artists are strong and determined. I would not be the filmmaker I am today without the collaboration afforded me by the Atlanta arts community. I am committed to living and working in Atlanta and giving back to the community that built my career. 

I founded Loud South Productions to accomplish three major goals - to tell stories, to make a living, and to help others make a living. My video production jobs have allowed me to collaborate with many talented Atlanta artists and technicians. The corporate gigs allow me to help put money in their pockets and the purely creative projects put joy in our hearts.

Melissa McGrath is a writer, comedian, actress, director and producer. Having sought out compelling stories her whole life, she is eager to examine and share interesting and thought-provoking material with others. She believes in changing the world through meaningful dialogue and hopes to help bring powerfully engaging stories to fruition. She values open discussions concerning morality, culture, personal development, and holds a soft spot for cathartic humor. Through the art of storytelling and cinema, Melissa seeks to help build a strong community of free-thinkers and cultivate a deeper understanding of the human experience. She is delighted to be working with Alliance theatre to share valuable stories.

Melissa McGrath
Melissa McGrath
Creator, "Screenshot"

Melissa McGrath is a writer, comedian, actress, director and producer. Having sought out compelling stories her whole life, she is eager to examine and share interesting and thought-provoking material with others. She believes in changing the world through meaningful dialogue and hopes to help bring powerfully engaging stories to fruition. She values open discussions concerning morality, culture, personal development, and holds a soft spot for cathartic humor. Through the art of storytelling and cinema, Melissa seeks to help build a strong community of free-thinkers and cultivate a deeper understanding of the human experience. She is delighted to be working with Alliance theatre to share valuable stories.

Kayla Parker (she/her/hers) is a dynamic theatre and film maven. She graduated from Howard University in 2018 with a B.F.A in acting. In addition to her curriculum, she was afforded the opportunity to work in the D.C. theatre community where she really began to tap into writing and the power of storytelling. She was commissioned by Theater Alliance in Washington, D.C. for her short play Either You Got It Or You Don't, as a part of their Protest in 8 series; a series about the systematic oppression of Black folx in America. 

Kayla Parker currently resides in Atlanta, GA where she remains an active member of the Atlanta theater community. Most recently, Parker was a writer on Crossroads, a serialized podcast drama produced by Actor’s Express. She is also proud to be in the inaugural class of DK fellows from True Colors Theatre Company. Parker is thrilled to use her artistry to be of service to her community.

Kayla Parker
Kayla Parker
Creator, "(Masc)hood"

Kayla Parker (she/her/hers) is a dynamic theatre and film maven. She graduated from Howard University in 2018 with a B.F.A in acting. In addition to her curriculum, she was afforded the opportunity to work in the D.C. theatre community where she really began to tap into writing and the power of storytelling. She was commissioned by Theater Alliance in Washington, D.C. for her short play Either You Got It Or You Don't, as a part of their Protest in 8 series; a series about the systematic oppression of Black folx in America. 

Kayla Parker currently resides in Atlanta, GA where she remains an active member of the Atlanta theater community. Most recently, Parker was a writer on Crossroads, a serialized podcast drama produced by Actor’s Express. She is also proud to be in the inaugural class of DK fellows from True Colors Theatre Company. Parker is thrilled to use her artistry to be of service to her community.

With over a decade of experience in the film + theatre industry both in front of and behind the camera, Marquelle Young has worked as an actor, producer, director, and 1st AD in film, having trained at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, and various professionals over the years including the likes of Tony-winning Director, Kenny Leon and Emmy-winning Director, Mary Lou Belli to name a few. 

She is an experienced Producer and Project Manager having worked in Digital Content with iOne Digital, and various Non-profits. As well as commercials and music videos, clients including Verizon, Motown Records, AT&T, and recently Google. 

As an award winning narrative short film director and producer, she has spent the past year directing 2 and producing four short films including, The Nine Month Mother, MeMaw, Changes, Celestial, and an award winning Music Video entitled, Moving On. This work has afforded her an opportunity to connect with and hire talented and good spirited crew members and vendors, providing them with greater work opportunities in the Atlanta area and Nationwide. She is committed to spreading empathy through stories that heal.

Marquelle Young
Marquelle Young
Creator, "Tell Me"

With over a decade of experience in the film + theatre industry both in front of and behind the camera, Marquelle Young has worked as an actor, producer, director, and 1st AD in film, having trained at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, and various professionals over the years including the likes of Tony-winning Director, Kenny Leon and Emmy-winning Director, Mary Lou Belli to name a few. 

She is an experienced Producer and Project Manager having worked in Digital Content with iOne Digital, and various Non-profits. As well as commercials and music videos, clients including Verizon, Motown Records, AT&T, and recently Google. 

As an award winning narrative short film director and producer, she has spent the past year directing 2 and producing four short films including, The Nine Month Mother, MeMaw, Changes, Celestial, and an award winning Music Video entitled, Moving On. This work has afforded her an opportunity to connect with and hire talented and good spirited crew members and vendors, providing them with greater work opportunities in the Atlanta area and Nationwide. She is committed to spreading empathy through stories that heal.

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